The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has stated that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is making significant progress in improving Nigeria’s economy through its reforms.
A Senior Economist at the Fiscal Affairs Department of the global body, Paulo Paz, made the disclosure on Wednesday at the opening of IMF-supported Headquarters Mission at the Revenue House in Abuja.
Paz said the IMF recognized the “good work that FIRS has been providing to the citizens,” under its chairman, Zacch Adedeji, adding that the Bretton institution would continue to support the agency in delivering effective tax administration for the growth and development of the country.
A statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS chairman said the mission of the IMF team to Nigeria was to explore areas the organisation could further support the agency in addressing the challenges that might arise, particularly with the recently signed tax laws.
According to him, the new tax laws will bring new impact to Nigeria.
“And we want to know how we can best support you with this new challenge. Our take on the four tax laws is first a recognition of the very good work that FIRS has been providing to the citizens.
Adedeji, while welcoming the visitors, applauded IMF for journeying with the tax body, saying that the relationship would continue when the agency transits to the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) next year.
Adedeji, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Tayo Koleosho, specifically lauded IMF collaboration with FIRS in portfolio management and compliance programme.
“IMF has gone on this journey with us, and I think we are in a good place to continue the journey together. We are working together in digital transformation, and VAT automation,” he said.
